Note: This is a seattlepi.com reader blog. It is not written or edited by the P-I. The authors are solely responsible for content. E-mail us at newmedia@seattlepi.com if you consider a post inappropriate.

Enjoying the Summer with your Canine Companion

Hopefully everyone is enjoying outdoor activities this summer and the family dog is included in some of those activities. You and your dog can get into shape and have fun at the same time.

Fraser has motivated me over the years to get in shape and stay in shape (copyright 2008 Diane Rich)

All pets need some exercise. Should you wish to get your dog in shape by more intense exercise than a walk around the block or get involved with any of the fun canine sports, schedule a Vet visit to make sure your dog is healthy before beginning any strenuous exercise program.

Walking or hiking with friends and their dogs is great fun for all (copyright 2008 Diane Rich)

Prep Work
It is up to you to use common sense when starting your pet out on a new exercise or athletic program. For your dog’s comfort, make sure your pet’s nails are clipped before a walk, jog, or hike. Nail care is often overlooked.

Begin any new exercise program gradually, as dogs can get sore muscles, sprain ankles, tear foot pads and hurt joints if overworked. Trotting on pavement for long periods can be tough on your pet’s joints and back. Running on hot sand at the beach or jogging with you on hot pavement can actually burn your dog’s foot pads.

Resting from a beach ride. Well, I did not need the rest as much as the horse and Fraser(copyright 2008 Diane Rich)

If you and your pet are weekend warriors, pace yourself as it is easy for your dog to overdo it. Many dogs do not know their limits so you need to gauge their exercise time by their specific health and fitness level. You may want to find a shady trail or walk path for your exercise program

Fraser takes Mia on a hike(copyright 2008 Diane Rich)

For couch potatoes or overweight dogs, begin with 15-20 minute walks two times a day and gradually work your way up to 30-60 minute walks twice a day. If your pet is overweight or classified as obese ask your Vet for advice on an exercise program. Recent studies have reported that approximately 60% of the dogs in the U.S are overweight or obese.

Exercising Your Puppy
Young puppies, especially large or giant breeds need your guidance to make sure they do not overdo it. Vets do not recommend intense jumping activities for growing puppies or large breeds as you may compromise soft growth plates.

Fraser and Chase enjoying backyard laps(copyright 2008 Diane Rich)

Weather Factors
You also need to factor in weather conditions. Hot weather is more challenging for dogs than cooler temperatures as their normal body temperature is higher than ours. Some breeds such as Frenchies, English Bulldogs and Pugs do not do well in hot weather. Senior dogs and thick coated dogs are usually challenged by the heat.

So, exercising your dog in the morning or early evening would be advised.

If you are not in the mood for physical activity a nice boat ride is always fun (copyright 2008 Diane Rich)

Sunburn and Heatstroke
Dogs can get sunburned so be careful about overexposure. Talk with your vet about sunscreen. No zinc products. Dogs also can suffer from heat exhaustion or even die from heatstroke so choose your activities wisely along with the time of day for those activities.

Enjoying miles and miles of beach in the morning (copyright 2008 Diane Rich)

Collars and ID
Make sure the dog’s collar fits correctly and is not too tight or so loose the dog can slip out of it. Even if your dog is microchipped, be sure the collar has I.D. with your contact information such as your land line and cell phone number.

Dehydration
If hiking or a long walk or jog is your choice of exercise bring plenty of water for your dog. You can teach your dog to drink out of a squirt bottle or you can bring along a collapsible water bowl for your companion to use. There are water bottles for dogs with their own built in water container.

A quick chase game mid hike. The humans rested while the dogs burned more fuel (copyright 2008 Diane Rich)

Water Sports
Swimming is great exercise for dogs. Hopefully the water is free from contamination. After a swim, clean and dry your dog’s ears as moisture in the ear may be host to bacteria and cause an ear infection. A quick rinse or bath for your dog after swimming is also suggested.

Fraser’s pool (copyright 2008 Diane Rich)

Post Workout
Your pet would probably appreciate a massage after a workout. You may appreciate one also and will have to address that one on your own. If you are jogging with your dog on city streets or sidewalks, you may want to check your dog’s pads for cuts and check between the pads for foreign objects. If hiking in the woods or in a field was the activity of choice you may want to check for ticks.

Should you exercise your canine buddy at dusk or dawn consider using a reflective collar, tag or leash for your dog.

Note: This is a seattlepi.com reader blog. It is not written or edited by the P-I. The authors are solely responsible for content. E-mail us at newmedia@seattlepi.com if you consider a post inappropriate.